Contact Rick Shihan Richard A. Savagian
A Lifetime of Wado-Ryu, Education, and Service
A Lifetime Dedicated to Wado-Ryu
For more than six decades, Shihan Richard A. “Rick” Savagian has devoted himself to martial arts, education, and service. Beginning his martial arts training in 1964, he went on to study Wado-Ryu under Shihan Toshio Osaka in 1979. That relationship helped shape a lifelong commitment to preserving and sharing the principles of traditional Wado-Ryu karate.
Rick established and led Mountainside Martial Arts Center in Phoenix beginning in 1979, teaching generations of students and emphasizing the connection between technical ability and personal character. Now retired from Mountainside, he continues his dedication to the art through Wado-Ryu USA and its mission to preserve and promote Wado-Ryu for future practitioners.
For Rick, karate has never been solely about learning to defend oneself. It is also an education in respect, self-control, perseverance, and responsibility to others.
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A Philosophy of Respect and Character
Rick expects students to become better citizens within their communities and, in a broader sense, their country. Proper respect is expected at all times, and the extension of courtesy is a founding principle of his approach to teaching.
His teaching philosophy is grounded in five principles and precepts of Wado-Ryu:
- Uphold the Principles of Propriety and Courtesy
- Cultivate the Spirit of Effort
- Perfect a Mind of Patience
- Live the Way of Truth
- Do Not Lose Self-Control or Act in a Violent Manner
These principles call students to carry the lessons of the dojo beyond their training and into everyday life.
Movement, Learning, and Education
Rick’s teaching approach draws on his academic background in physical education and exercise physiology. His curriculum at Mountainside incorporated biofeedback and the study of kinesiology to support the development of fine and gross motor skills, coordination, and social motor skills. He emphasized physical awareness, balance, concentration, and self-esteem as important parts of martial arts training.
He earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and a Master of Science in Exercise Physiology from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse. His educational and coaching experience includes roles at South Mountain Community College, the University of Arizona, the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, and Arizona State University.
Martial Arts Experience
- Martial arts training beginning in 1964
- Wado-Ryu training under Shihan Toshio Osaka beginning in 1979
- Additional training in Keichu-Ryu, Ku-Fa, and Shinkendo
- President and Head Instructor, Mountainside Martial Arts Center, beginning in 1979 (now retired)
- President, Board of Directors, Wado-Ryu USA
- Member, Board of Directors, International Wado-Ryu Karate-do Renmei
- 6th Dan Kyoshi, Wado-Ryu
Academic and Teaching Experience
- University of Wisconsin–La Crosse — B.S., Physical Education; M.S., Exercise Physiology
- Instructor, South Mountain Community College
- Adjunct Professor, University of Arizona
- Adjunct Professor, University of Wisconsin–La Crosse
- Assistant Coach, Arizona State University
International Experience and Professional Recognition
Rick’s Wado-Ryu involvement has extended far beyond the dojo. His experience has included international competition, coaching, refereeing, and participation in world-level events.
- 2024 — Dignitary, Wado-Ryu World Championship
- USA Wado-Ryu World Team Coach — 2024, 2016, 2009, 2002, and 1999 (Tokyo, Japan)
- 2005 — World Cup Designated USA Head Referee (London, England)
- 1984 — USA Wado-Ryu World Team Competitor (Tokyo, Japan)
- Licensed USA SafeSport Instructor
- Licensed USA Karate Referee
- 1973–1976 — University of Wisconsin–La Crosse Track & Field Team
A Commitment to the Community
Rick has also made service to the Valley of the Sun an important part of his life. His community involvement has included leadership, sports, civic, and charitable organizations:
- Game Operations Director, Fiesta Bowl Committee
- Chairman, Executive Leadership Committee (Life Members)
- Member, Arizona Sports Entertainment Commission
- Arizona Sports Organization Board of Directors
- Member, Ahwatukee Foothills Chamber of Commerce
- Member, Arizona Leukemia Board — Emeritus
- Member, Sun Angel Foundation, Arizona State University — Emeritus
A Tradition That Continues
Although Rick has retired from the day-to-day work of Mountainside Martial Arts Center, his commitment to Wado-Ryu continues. Through Wado-Ryu USA, he seeks to honor the instruction he received, share the history and philosophy of the art, and support those who will carry its traditions forward.
His hope is that future generations of karateka will find in Wado-Ryu not only a martial discipline, but also a lasting foundation for character, courtesy, perseverance, and service.
A Personal Note of Gratitude
A very special thank you to my dear friends Michael Doran, Andrew Faulds, Katie Rae Muller, and Alexandra Seigal.
Your sincere friendship, genuine support, and encouragement over the years have meant so much to me. Your contributions have been instrumental in the development of our Wado-Ryu USA website, and your continued encouragement has helped me keep moving forward in my efforts to promote, preserve, and teach Wado-Ryu.
To my teacher, Shihan Toshio Osaka: thank you for your belief in me and for the trust and opportunity you have given me to help preserve and advance our beautiful art. It is my hope to see Wado-Ryu continue to grow and enrich the lives of future generations of karateka.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Richard A. Savagian
Shihan, Wado-Ryu USA